Whole30 Kalua Pig
Indulge in the smoky, tender goodness of Whole30 Kalua Pig, a simplified, healthy twist on the traditional Hawaiian classic. Made with just three simple ingredients—pork shoulder, Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt), and a splash of liquid smoke—this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful showstopper. Slow-cooked for 18 hours, the pork becomes irresistibly juicy and fork-tender, perfect for shredding and mingling with its own savory juices. Completely Whole30 compliant, this dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether served on its own, nestled in lettuce wraps, or topping a fresh salad, this Kalua Pig is a deliciously versatile option for dinner or meal prep. Plus, its effortless preparation in the slow cooker makes it a stress-free way to savor the bold tastes of Hawaii at home.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt or kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
Instructions
Start by rinsing the pork shoulder under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts across the surface of the pork shoulder. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Evenly rub the Hawaiian sea salt or kosher salt all over the pork shoulder, ensuring you cover every part.
Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
Pour the liquid smoke over the pork, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 18 hours. This long, slow cooking process is what gives Kalua Pig its tender, flavorful characteristic.
After 18 hours, the pork should be fork-tender and easily pull apart. Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
Use two forks to shred the pork, removing any excess fat if desired.
Transfer the shredded pork back to the slow cooker and mix it with the natural juices accumulated during cooking.
Keep the shredded pork warm in the slow cooker until you are ready to serve.
Serve hot, and enjoy your Whole30 Kalua Pig as is, or incorporate it into salads, lettuce wraps, or other Whole30 compliant dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
502 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.1 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.1 g | 70% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 150 mg | 50% | |
| Sodium | 1583 mg | 69% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.0 g | ||
| Protein | 36.1 g | 72% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 20 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 562 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
